How To Start A Hyundai with A Usb Cable?

Content Menu

● Introduction to Starting a Hyundai with a USB Cable

● Background

● How It Works

>> Detailed Explanation

● Measures to Address the Issue

>> Software Update Details

● Impact and Consequences

>> Statistics

● Additional Security Measures

● Conclusion

● Frequently Asked Questions

>> 1. What Hyundai models are affected by the USB cable theft method?

>> 2. How does the USB cable method work?

>> 3. What measures are being taken by Hyundai and Kia to address this issue?

>> 4. Can owners take additional steps to secure their vehicles?

>> 5. Are there any legal actions being taken against Hyundai and Kia?

● Citations:

Introduction to Starting a Hyundai with a USB Cable

The concept of starting a Hyundai with a USB cable has gained significant attention due to a viral social media challenge. This method involves using a USB cable to bypass the ignition system in certain Hyundai and Kia models, allowing thieves to start and drive away vehicles without keys. In this article, we will explore the background of this issue, how it works, and the measures being taken by Hyundai and Kia to address it.

Background

The issue primarily affects Hyundai and Kia models that do not have push-button start and lack an immobilizer, a device that verifies the authenticity of the key's transponder chip against the vehicle's ECU. Without this security feature, thieves can exploit a logic flaw in the ignition system by using a USB cable to activate the ignition cylinder. This vulnerability has been present in many models from 2015 to 2021, though newer models have been modified to prevent such exploits.

How It Works

The process involves removing the steering column cover and using a USB cable to manipulate the ignition mechanism. This allows the vehicle to be started without the need for a key. The method has been widely shared on social media platforms like TikTok, leading to a significant increase in thefts of affected models. The ease with which this method can be executed has raised concerns about the security measures in place for these vehicles.

Detailed Explanation

1. Steering Column Access: Thieves first gain access to the steering column by removing the cover. This exposes the ignition wiring and mechanism.

2. USB Cable Manipulation: A USB cable is then used to connect specific wires in the ignition system, mimicking the signal that would normally be sent by the key. This tricks the vehicle into thinking a key is present.

3. Ignition Activation: Once the correct wires are connected, the ignition can be activated, allowing the vehicle to start.

Measures to Address the Issue

In response to the surge in thefts, Hyundai and Kia have released software updates to enhance security. These updates aim to prevent vehicles from being started without the correct key by requiring the key to be present in the ignition.

Software Update Details

- Hyundai's Response: Hyundai has introduced a free anti-theft software upgrade for affected models. This update ensures that the vehicle cannot be started unless the key is in the ignition, effectively preventing the USB cable method. Hyundai has also partnered with law enforcement agencies to provide additional support and resources to combat theft.

- Kia's Response: Similarly, Kia has also rolled out software updates to address the vulnerability. These updates extend the duration of the car's alarm and require the key to be present for ignition. Kia has emphasized the importance of vehicle owners taking proactive steps to secure their vehicles.

Impact and Consequences

The impact of this issue has been significant, with cities like Milwaukee and Chicago reporting substantial increases in Hyundai and Kia thefts. The viral nature of the challenge has led to widespread awareness and concern among vehicle owners.

Statistics

- Theft Increase: In Milwaukee, Hyundai and Kia thefts increased by 2,500% year over year, with these vehicles accounting for more than two-thirds of all car thefts in the city.

- Legal Actions: There have been discussions about legal actions against Hyundai and Kia, with some cities considering lawsuits over the lack of adequate security measures. These lawsuits argue that the companies failed to provide sufficient security features in their vehicles, leading to financial losses for owners and increased burdens on law enforcement.

Additional Security Measures

Vehicle owners can take several steps to enhance the security of their vehicles:

1. Immobilizer Installation: Installing an aftermarket immobilizer can provide an additional layer of security by requiring a specific signal from the key to start the vehicle.

2. Wheel Locks: Using wheel locks can deter thieves by making it difficult to move the vehicle even if it is started.

3. Parking in Secure Locations: Parking vehicles in well-lit, secure locations can reduce the likelihood of theft.

4. Regular Software Updates: Ensuring that vehicles receive all available software updates can help protect against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

Starting a Hyundai with a USB cable is a serious security vulnerability that has been exploited by thieves. While Hyundai and Kia have taken steps to address this issue through software updates, vehicle owners should remain vigilant and consider additional security measures to protect their vehicles. The collaboration between manufacturers, law enforcement, and vehicle owners is crucial in combating such thefts and ensuring safer communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Hyundai models are affected by the USB cable theft method?

Hyundai models from 2015 to 2021 without push-button start and lacking an immobilizer are primarily affected. However, 2022 models have been modified to prevent this method.

2. How does the USB cable method work?

Thieves remove the steering column cover and use a USB cable to activate the ignition cylinder, bypassing the need for a key. This exploits a logic flaw in vehicles without an immobilizer.

3. What measures are being taken by Hyundai and Kia to address this issue?

Both companies are rolling out software updates to require the key to be present in the ignition for the vehicle to start, effectively preventing the USB cable method.

4. Can owners take additional steps to secure their vehicles?

Yes, owners can consider installing aftermarket immobilizer systems or using wheel locks to deter theft.

5. Are there any legal actions being taken against Hyundai and Kia?

There have been discussions and lawsuits filed against the companies over the lack of adequate security measures in affected models.

Citations:

[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijm55GtUzs4

[2] https://www.hyundaicanada.com/-/media/hyundai/feature/ownerssection/manuals/english/2024/elantra/2024-elantra-infotainment-manual.pdf

[3] https://hyundaipowerequipment.co.uk/hyundai-hyps-400-portable-power-bank

[4] https://www.thedrive.com/news/how-thieves-are-stealing-hyundais-and-kias-with-just-a-usb-cable

[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=roDpoc8jnSE

[6] https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/hyundai-kia-patch-bug-allowing-car-thefts-with-a-usb-cable/

[7] https://www.insideevsforum.com/community/index.php?threads%2Fusb-cable-start.14577%2F

[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8oUavufLe0

[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J89tY-p9xUw

[10] https://www.pcmag.com/news/kia-hyundai-release-software-to-stop-tiktok-challenge-fueling-car-thefts

[11] https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/thieves-using-usb-cables-steal-kia-hyundai-tiktok-challenge/

[12] https://www.caranddriver.com/car-accessories/g42569313/best-jump-starters-tested/

[13] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1UITjvr3Zo

[14] https://www.carscoops.com/2022/10/this-is-how-easy-it-is-to-steal-a-hyundai-or-kia-with-a-usb-cable/

[15] https://ownersmanual.hyundai.com/docview/webhelp/Hyundai/69a8429a-bf7d-40ca-a5fc-2a012422030f/ida1cf5551dcc.html

[16] https://myhyundaistore.com/jump-starter-flashlight-with-usb-power-scoshe-z047/

[17] https://www.reddit.com/r/Hyundai/comments/19at3xf/hotwired/

[18] https://www.hyundaiaccessorystore.com/Hyundai_accessories.html

[19] https://embeddedartistry.com/fieldatlas/stealing-cars-with-a-usb-cable/

[20] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpFCmM2rtl4

[21] https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/wblmlc/nationwide_rise_in_kia_and_hyundai_car_thefts_due/

[22] https://www.reddit.com/r/Hyundai/comments/10g5q3k/how_is_a_theft_vulnerability_via_usb_cord_not_a/

[23] https://parts.hyundaicanada.com/p/Hyundai__/CABLE-ASSY-USB/125806733/96595S8000.html

[24] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvNvKAcxPvY

[25] https://toronto.citynews.ca/2022/09/22/thieves-key-on-hack-that-leaves-hyundai-kia-cars-vulnerable/

[26] https://parts.hyundaicanada.com/p/Hyundai__Santa-Fe/CABLE-ASSY-USB/125806544/965952W001.html

[27] https://www.techradar.com/news/hyundai-and-kia-cars-could-be-stolen-with-just-a-usb-cable

[28] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EnRtXMQLNQo

[29] https://hyundaishop.com/shop-by-model/2-in-1-carabiner-usb-cable/

[30] https://ownersmanual.hyundai.com/docview/webhelp/doc/8bf31204-4eb5-48f8-a3be-f1c555de698f/idefc547d583a.html